Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
Bicycling

Cyclist Dies of Injuries from Central Park Crash

Runners, cyclists, a dog and a tractor trailer! A great combo.

The cyclist who cops say lost control of his e-bike after making contact with a pedestrian at a crowded Central Park intersection has died of his injuries.

Charles Cheeseboro, 43, of Harlem, died Wednesday, two days after the 3:20 p.m. crash — about which few details are known.

Cops said only that they found Cheeseboro unconscious in the East Drive near 74th Street near a 77-year old pedestrian who had an unspecified minor injury. A preliminary investigation revealed that the cyclist had struck the pedestrian, lost control of his bike, and tumbled to the ground, striking his head.

He was taken to New York Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, where he died.

Cheeseboro would be the 20th cyclist to die in New York so far this year — up from 10 all of last year — though it is unlikely that the NYPD will classify his death that way. The agency considers e-bike riders as motorcyclists in its crash statistics.

The area of the park where Cheeseboro suffered his fatal injuries is a notorious point of conflict among cyclists and pedestrians — and the many car drivers who still roll through the supposedly “car-free” greensward. City officials say cars and trucks are still allowed on Central Park roadways to make deliveries or to conduct official business, yet Streetsblog frequently spots cars that do not meet that description.

Signage in the park — including “Cars Only” paint marking — is still designed towards the automobile, despite the putative ban in June 2018.

This is a breaking story. 

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Friday Video: Welcome to the ‘War on Cars’

Here's a pithy, witty, concise synopsis of why cars suck from the makers of America's best-loved podcast.

September 13, 2024

The Car Stole Our Bliss — And It Started 125 Years Ago Today

The automobile got its first taste of blood 125 years ago tomorrow — and it's never been able to kick the habit.

September 13, 2024

Council Bill Could Chill Citizen Reporting That Dramatically Boosted Idling Enforcement

Sweeping proposed changes to city's citizen commercial idling enforcement program will "chill" public participation, opponents warn.

September 13, 2024

Friday’s Headlines: Greening Medians Edition

From mean streets to green streets? Yes, thanks to a Council bill.

September 13, 2024

Swiss Miss: MTA Claims Neutrality in Pro-Congestion Pricing Lawsuits

The MTA is sitting out the latest lawsuits aimed at restoring congestion pricing, according to an agency court filing.

September 13, 2024
See all posts